Nora Al-Khateeb

 Hello everyone!

I am Nora Al-Khateeb, a sixth-year medical student at Yarmouk University. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity I had to complete my elective at the University of Oxford.

I began applying for elective rotations early in my fifth year. Although I had not yet started any minor rotations at that time, I wanted to explore one of the minor specialties in the UK. I chose ophthalmology and was delighted to appreciate it both at university and during my elective.

During my time at Oxford, I was based at John Radcliffe Hospital, where I followed a comprehensive schedule that included clinics in the mornings and afternoons. I rotated through various eye subspecialties, such as AMD, genetics, and oculoplastics, which gave me exposure to a wide range of cases.

Additionally, I attended classes with Oxford students and practiced using the slit-lamp and ophthalmoscope, as well as conducting visual assessments. Lastly, I had the opportunity to observe anti-VEGF eye injections and surgeries in the operating theater, including posterior vitrectomy, cornea, and glaucoma surgeries.

Apart from my elective placement, I spent my free time exploring the enchanting, historic city of Oxford. As an elective student, I had privileges similar to matriculated students, including access to the iconic colleges and Bodleian libraries - including the Hogwarts infirmary!

I would highly recommend this elective to fellow students. It allowed me to create great memories, work with an amazing team, and connect with elective students from all over the world.